Chance to take the torch

LEYTHERS are being offered a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to take part in the Paralympic Games.

Olympic organisers are looking for inspirational individuals or teams to carry the Paralympic Flame as part of the torch relay which will finish at the opening ceremony of the Games in London, and have teamed up with supermarket giant Sainsbury’s.

Shoppers visiting the Leigh store, on the Parsonage Retail Park, can nominate anyone who they feel is a particularly inspiring figure in the local community.

There are 100 places available to take part in the torch relay before the Games, which will see the flame carried overnight through the city of London from Stoke Mandeville, where the Paralympic movement was founded, to the Olympic stadium in Stratford.

Sainsbury’s Leigh Store Manager Sal Cau said: “This a great opportunity for our customers in Leigh to get involved in build up to the Paralympic Games.

“To have the opportunity of carrying the Paralympic Flame and help launch this year’s games really would be a great honour for an individual or team from the Leigh area.

“We’re looking for nominations of people who have really made a difference by inspiring those around them.”

Sebastian Coe, chair of Games organisers LOCOG, said: “All around the UK there are teams or individuals that embody the Paralympic values and make a difference to the lives of others.

“The London 2012 Paralympic Torch Relay aims to recognise the contribution of some of these amazing people.”

Sainsbury’s customers can make a nomination by picking up a leaflet in-store and returning it by freepost, calling the helpline on 01299 382 074 or visiting www.sainsburys.co.uk/paralympictorchrelay. Nominations close on Tuesday 14th February.